Lush layers of mascarpone, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and pillowy whipped cream make these tiramisu cups a dreamy, no-bake dessert. Creamy, coffee-infused, and perfectly portioned in cups or jars, they’re simple, make-ahead friendly, and totally irresistible.
1 1/4cups(300ml)brewed espresso or strong coffeecooled
2tbsp(30ml)marsala wineoptional, or substitute rum/coffee liqueur
Cream Layer
1cup(240ml)heavy creamcold
1/2cup(60g)powdered sugar
1tsp(5ml)vanilla extract
8oz(225g)mascarpone cheesesoftened to room temperature
Assembly
18-24crispy ladyfingers (Savoiardi)broken to fit cups if needed
unsweetened cocoa powderfor dusting
dark chocolategrated or curled, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Spatula
6-8oz Cups or Jars
Prevent your screen from going dark
Instructions
Brew and cool espresso. Prepare 1 1/4 cups of strong espresso or coffee and let cool completely. Stir in the marsala, rum, or liqueur (if using) and set aside.
Whip cream with sugar and vanilla. In a cold mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on low, then medium-high, until stiff peaks form.
Beat and fold in mascarpone. In a separate bowl, gently beat the mascarpone until smooth, then fold it into the whipped cream until just combined and creamy.
Layer cream. Spoon or pipe a small layer of mascarpone cream into the bottom of each cup or jar.
Dip and layer ladyfingers. Briefly dip ladyfingers into the espresso mixture for 1-2 seconds (do not soak), break if needed, and arrange in a single layer over the cream.
Dust and repeat layers. Sprinkle with a little cocoa powder or grated chocolate (optional), then add another layer of cream, more dipped ladyfingers, then more cream. Finish with cream on top.
Chill. Cover cups with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours, or overnight for best flavor and texture.
Serve. Just before serving, dust tops with cocoa powder and garnish with grated or curled dark chocolate.
Notes
Adapt for kids or alcohol-free by omitting the marsala. For chocolate lovers, dip ladyfingers in hot cocoa. Feel free to layer in fruit, swirl in Nutella, or garnish with extra chocolate curls. These cups keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, but are best enjoyed within 48 hours.